WHO: Low Zika transmission in Phl

MANILA, Philippines - The World Health Organization (WHO) sees a “low level” of transmission of the Zika virus in the country.

“What is important is for the population to remain vigilant…Do their share in helping control the spread of the virus....There is no reason for complacency,” Gundo Aurel Weiler, WHO country representative in the Philippines, said yesterday.

Weiler said the public should help in eliminating breeding places of mosquitoes not only to address Zika, but other mosquito-borne diseases.

He said the Department of Health (DOH) has put in place a system to guide medical professionals on the diagnosis and detection of cases particularly among women.

Weiler said Zika infection has spread to all countries where the vector is present.  

“We see sporadic cases,” he told The STAR.

The WHO had suspected that Zika has been in the country for “a long time now,” Weiler said.

The DOH said 57 Zika cases were recorded as of Feb. 2, seven of them pregnant women. The patients are aged seven to 59 years.

Metro Manila has 20 cases; Calabarzon, 18; Western Visayas, 15, and Central Luzon and Central Visayas, two cases each.